Icklesham CE Primary School, East Sussex

Training TA3s to administer Dyslexia Screening Test

Icklesham CEP School is a small, rural school with 102 pupils in 4 mixed age classes. We have a high number of pupils with SEN including 6% with statements. We also have 12 TA/INAs to support these and other pupils. Many children come in with low level literacy skills and appear to have “Dyslexic” type problems. We needed to have our own staff that could confidently carry out a dyslexia assessment.

The TAs attended a one year course run by the Language and Learning Support Service (LLSS). This ran over 5 days throughout the year, at Uckfield. The TAs were encouraged to complete a 2000 word essay to be handed in by end of course.

Each of the 5 sessions was high impact, fast moving, interactive and required an assignment to be completed by the next session. The TAs had to carry out two observations; a “miscue” follow-up and then one on the chosen final topic e.g. Dyslexia Test, the outcomes of to these were written into a 2000 word essay.

Having done the Support Work in Schools (SWiS) VQ the TAs were more able to prioritise their time. There was background reading required in order to broaden understanding of each session and references/quotes for the final assignment. The TAs needed time to practice the use of the Screening Test before being assessed. They discussed the lack of time with the headteacher and a time was agreed when TAs could work with the children, practice and undertake the tests. The TAs also had support from LLSS. The TAs completed the course and now awaiting their results with great anticipation!!

Impact on Learning,Teaching and/or Leadership

The TAs have a huge sense of achievement having completed course! Their self-esteem has been raised and they feel valued as part of whole staff team. There is improved liaison and effective working between TAs and Teachers. The teachers have recognised the increase in the TAs skills and there has been a huge impact on the way the TAs view children’s learning in school.

The TAs are also more confident when working with children and teachers as they now have further skills to assist children who are struggling.

The TAs can undertake the Dyslexia Screening Test (DST) and offer strategies to support the children they understand that it is not about labelling a child but recognising their problems and being able to support them also, the strategies can also be used to help all children.